Samsung have won the race to have this year’s home entertainment craze, full HD 3D TVs, in stores. Samsung are going 3D with Series 7 plasma and edge-lit LED TV models. The LED models will be on the shelves on April 19, while the plasma models will follow in May.

Internet connectivity

And rest assured, these are not 3D TVs only – you can also watch ‘regular’ TV. More than that really, as these TVs embrace the internet-connected widgets/apps age. In addition to broadcast TV, you can watch, or interact with, content from YouTube, Twitter, Skype, Accuweather, Getty Images, Picasa, History App, Sudoku and Texas Hold’em Poker, if you connect the TV to your home network via the TV’s Ethernet connection. Also announced at the recent press conference launching this new range of 3D LED and plasma TVs was a deal with BigPond TV. There’ll be more details on exactly what this will bring into your home, in the very near future.

You can also, with the addition of the TALK-7180 webcam, use your Samsung TV to make Skype video calls. The webcam is available separately from the Skype shop online, for $204.99.

In-built PVR

Both the plasma and LED models include a USB port, and, in combination with a flash drive or external hard drive, turns the TVs into a personal video recorder. Simply plug in a drive, either hit the record button or set the timer, and your programs are there to watch later.

Viewing conditions

First up, to watch 3D content you must wear, and turn on, the 3D glasses. Ideally there’ll be no fluorescent lighting in your viewing environment, as according to Samsung this type of lighting can bring about a flickering effect while watching in 3D mode. Also, they advise that direct sunlight can fect the operation of the 3D glasses.

Health issues

Believe it or not, these televisions come with a health warning. To quote directly from the Samsung 3D TV Warning page:

Photosensitive Seizure Warning and Other Health Risks

Some viewers may experience an epileptic seizure or stroke when exposed to certain flashing images or lights contained in certain television pictures or video games. If you or any of your family has a history of epilepsy or stroke, please consult with a medical specialist before using the 3D function.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, immediately stop watching 3D pictures and consult a medical specialist: (1) altered vision; (2) lightheadedness; (3) dizziness; (4) involuntary movements such as eye or muscle twitching; (5) confusion; (6) nausea; (7) loss of awareness; (8) convulsions; (9) cramps; and/or (10) disorientation. Parents should monitor and ask their children about the above symptoms as children and teenagers may be more likely to experience these symptoms than adults.

Viewing in 3D mode may also cause motion sickness, perceptual after effects, disorientation, eye strain, and decreased postural stability. It is recommended that users take frequent breaks to lessen the likelihood of these effects. If you have any of the above symptoms, immediately discontinue use of this device and do not resume until the symptoms have subsided.

We do not recommend watching 3D if you are in bad physical condition, need sleep or have been drinking alcohol.

Watching TV while sitting too close to the screen for an extended period of time may damage your eyesight. The ideal viewing distance should be at least three times the height of the TV screen. It is recommended that the viewer’s eyes are level with the screen.

Watching TV while wearing 3D Active Glasses for an extended period of time may cause headaches or fatigue. If you experience a headache, fatigue or dizziness, stop watching TV and rest.

Do not use the 3D Active Glasses for any purpose other than viewing 3D television. Wearing the 3D Active Glasses for any other purpose (as general spectacles, sunglasses, protective goggles, etc.) may physically harm you or weaken your eyesight.

Viewing in 3D mode may cause disorientation for some viewers. DO NOT place your television near open stairwells, cables, balconies or other objects that may cause you to injure yourself.

The TV range, the prices

So, if you’re OK on the viewing conditions and health issues, and want to be on the cutting edge of home entertainment, here’s the pricing details. The Samsung Series 7 3D TVs are available in either LED or plasma.

LED – Series 7

40″ model number UA40C7000: $2,899

46″ model number UA46C7000: $3,699

55″ model number UA55C7000: $4,799

Plasma – Series 7

50″ model number PS50C7000: $2,499

58″ model number PS58C7000: $3,499

63″ model number PS63C7000: $4,499

The 3D glasses

Samsung has produced three different types of 3D glasses to work with the new 3D TVs:

SSG-2100AB 3D adult size, battery-charged – $99

SSG-2200AR adult size, rechargeable battery- $129

SSG-2200KR kids size, rechargeable battery – $129

The 3D glasses are purchased separately. For a limited time Samsung are offering a 3D bonus pack with the purchase of the new 3D TVs. The bonus pack contains:

2 x battery-charged 3D Adult Glasses

1 x Monsters vs Aliens 3D Blu-Ray title

This offer starts April 19, and is available while stocks last.

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Scott Fitzgerald started TechStyles in 2010, after 5 years of running the GadgetGuy website, so gadgets and tech have been a big part of his life for quite a while now. Prior to that he edited the Macquarie Dictionary, Travelmate.com.au and NeeditNow.com. Find Scott on Google+